Get ready, Northern California: winter weather is making a return just in time for the weekend. Starting March 30, residents across the region will experience a mix of snow, rain, and strong winds, with the storm expected to last until April 3. The impacts will be widespread, with major concerns for mountain travel, potential flooding, and hazardous driving conditions.
When and Where Will the Storm Hit?
The storm is set to arrive on March 30, bringing light rain and snow to the region by the evening. However, it’s over the weekend—Saturday, April 1, to Sunday, April 2—that conditions will worsen. Snow levels will drop, with heavy snowfall expected in the mountains, and rain will intensify in the valleys. By Monday, April 3, the system will start moving out of the region, but not before causing significant disruptions.
The heaviest snow is expected in the Sierra Nevada and other higher elevations. Areas above 4,500 feet could see up to 2 feet of snow, while Lake Tahoe and other mountain communities may receive as much as 3 feet.
Weather Hazards: Snow, Rain, and Wind Threaten the Region
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Heavy Snow: The Sierra Nevada mountains will bear the brunt of this storm, with snowfall rates reaching 2 inches per hour at times. Travel through mountain passes such as Interstate 80 and Highway 50 will be difficult, and chain controls are likely to be enforced. High elevations will see heavy accumulations, making road closures and delays possible.
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Rain: Coastal regions, including the Bay Area and Sacramento Valley, will experience heavy rain, with totals of 2 to 4 inches expected. Urban areas with poor drainage systems are at risk of localized flooding, and rain may cause significant delays in daily activities.
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Strong Winds: Winds are also a concern, particularly in the Bay Area and mountain ranges, where gusts could reach up to 50 mph. These winds will create dangerous travel conditions, especially for high-profile vehicles, and could also result in power outages.
What Should You Do to Prepare for the Storm?
If you’re in an area affected by this storm, it’s crucial to take precautions. Here are a few tips to stay safe:
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Mountain Travel: Avoid mountain travel if possible. If you must go, make sure you have chains and a fully charged phone. Pay attention to Caltrans reports for road closures and chain control updates.
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Flood Precautions: For those living in flood-prone areas, now is the time to clear gutters and check drainage systems. If you live in a flood zone, be prepared to take action quickly if water begins to rise.
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Protect Your Home: Secure outdoor furniture and trim any overhanging tree branches that could cause damage in high winds. Ensure your home is winterized to handle any cold temperatures.
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Stay Informed: Keep a close eye on weather updates through local news or weather apps. This will ensure you have the most up-to-date information as the storm progresses.
Impacts on Travel and Safety
Travel is likely to be severely impacted by the storm. Mountain roads will be difficult and dangerous, especially at night when visibility is poor. The Bay Area and other low-lying areas will face the threat of flooding, and driving could become treacherous due to heavy rain and winds. If you can, plan to stay off the roads during the worst of the storm.
In addition, wind gusts of up to 50 mph in certain areas could bring down trees and power lines, resulting in power outages. Make sure you have emergency supplies like flashlights and batteries on hand, just in case.
When Will the Storm End?
The storm is expected to taper off by April 3, but not before causing widespread impacts. Snow will begin to melt, and rain will subside as the system moves out of the state. Still, the aftermath of the storm could leave lasting effects on the region, including flooding in some areas and dangerous mountain conditions.
